Graphic Facilitation is the use of large scale imagery to lead groups and individuals towards a goal. The method is used in various processes such as meetings, seminars, workshops and conferences. This visual process is conducted by a Graphic Facilitator.
The early field of Graphic Facilitation was named “Explicit Group Memory” by Facilitator Geoff Ball, who “discovered” that a shared picture supported group learning or more importantly – a lasting memory in the group.
A Graphic Facilitation Retrospective by Graphic Facilitator David Sibbet tells the story of these early pioneers in the field who were inspired by architects (with understanding of large imagery), designers, computer engineers (who started to cluster information in a new way), art and psychology. He describes that what at a glance “just” looked like graphics was so much more: “It was also a dance, and story telling, since the facilitator was constantly in physical motion, miming the group and its communication with movement, as well as commenting on the displays..”
What is a Graphic Recorder? Graphic Recorders are artists who listen to a speaker and transcribe the information in a visual manner. Graphic Recorders can work as a recording services for summaries of the key messages of speakers at conferences, or executives or leaders to graphically facilitate for strategic planning and company visioning.
The terms Graphic Facilitator and Graphic Recorder are often used interchangeably by those practicing the technique, which can occasionally cause confusion amongst those looking for a professional in the field for hire.